'curry' originates from Tamil, specifically the word 'kari', where 'kari' meant 'sauce' or 'relish for rice'.

'kari' transformed into the Portuguese word 'caril', and eventually became the modern English word 'curry' through colonial influence.

Initially, it meant 'sauce or relish for rice', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a dish of meat, vegetables, etc., cooked in an Indian-style sauce of strong spices and typically served with rice'.